Shashi Shekhar Vempati Takes Over CBFC Leadership

In a significant development for India's film industry, Shashi Shekhar Vempati has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). This announcement, made by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on May 6, 2026, marks the end of Prasoon Joshi's nine-year tenure.

Vempati's appointment comes at a pivotal moment, as Joshi steps down following his promotion to Chairman of Prasar Bharati. Joshi's leadership at CBFC was characterized by a transformative shift, moving away from traditional censorship practices towards a more structured and transparent certification process.

During his tenure, Joshi advocated for a system that classifies films based on age suitability, ensuring creative freedom while considering societal norms. His push for modernization included digitizing the certification process, which improved efficiency and reduced delays, benefiting filmmakers.

Joshi's open communication approach with industry stakeholders was instrumental in resolving issues and maintaining a stable environment. With Vempati's extensive experience in media, broadcasting, and public communication, the CBFC is poised for further institutional strengthening and innovation.

This transition signifies a new chapter for the CBFC, building upon Joshi's legacy and embracing Vempati's vision for the future of film certification in India.